Greek Shepherd

Also called Ellinikós Pimenikós, Greek Sheepdog, Hellenic Shepherd Dog, Greek Shepherd Dog

Checked 2026-09-30 · 1 sources

A serious, self-reliant guardian that takes its job of protecting the flock to heart.

Key facts
Size	Giant
Weight	32 to 84 kg (71 to 185 lb)males 40 to 84 kg, females 32 to 70 kg1
Height	60 to 81 cm (24 to 32 in)males 66 to 81 cm, females 60 to 78 cm1
Coat	Dense double coat
Origin	Greece1

Rare breedBig dogs Cold climate

devoted flock guardian

hardy

independent worker

what they are likeGreek Shepherd temperament

A serious, self-reliant guardian that takes its job of protecting the flock to heart. It is a working dog first and is best understood by experienced owners who respect its independence.1

how to spot oneGreek Shepherd coat and colours

dense double coat

A big, powerful livestock guardian with a thick double coat that shields it from mountain weather.1

Colourswhiteblackbrownlight brownmixed or spotted1

a typical week and yearThe care rhythm

A typical home-care rhythm for a Greek Shepherd. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year

by countryIs the Greek Shepherd legal where you live?

1 of the 44 countries we check have a rule that names the Greek Shepherd. Check the law before you travel or move, the details change.

Rules by country
Country	Rule	Source
Ukraine	Insurance requiredCabinet of Ministers resolution 'Deiaki pytannia shchodo nebezpechnykh porid sobak' (10 Nov 2021) lists 51 breeds and their mixes as dangerous: owners must hold compulsory liability insurance when registering, and use a leash and muzzle where the dog may endanger people.	official

Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.

how busy a day looksGreek Shepherd exercise needs

Built for a working life alongside moving flocks; needs space and a purpose rather than just walks.1

the hands-on bitsGreek Shepherd grooming and care

Regular brushing of the double coat, especially during seasonal shedding.1

where they are happiestGreek Shepherd at home

Traditionally lives outdoors with sheep and goats in rural and mountain areas.1

where it all beganGreek Shepherd history

A very old livestock guardian type from Greece, linked to flock dogs of the Epirus region mentioned in ancient writing. It still travels with shepherds on the seasonal migration between winter lowlands and summer mountain pastures.1

for the dinner tableFun facts

1
Shepherds traditionally cropped the right ear only, believing it helped the dog hear, giving a lopsided look.1
2
The seasonal migration these dogs follow can cover more than 480 km.1
3
In some areas shepherds keep only white dogs.1

the story behind itWhere the name comes from

The breed is named for its traditional role as a shepherd's guardian dog in Greece, also known as the Greek Sheepdog, Hellenic Shepherd Dog, or Ellinikos Poimenikos.1

stars of the breedFamous ones

Alexander the Great's shepherd dogs from Epirus Used by Alexander the Great during his military campaigns.2

for your new friendName ideas

AresArtemisAthenaDemeterHermesIrisKronosNyxPanSeleneThanatosZeus

told by a Greek ShepherdA day in the life

I’m a Greek Shepherd, and my day begins with a slow patrol around the flock. I check every shadow and listen for trouble. When a stray dog approaches, I stand tall and give a low growl, it turns away. My human trusts me completely. At dusk, I settle near the sheep, one eye open, proud to keep them safe.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

the official bitsRecognised by

Kennel Club of Greece: Recognised nationally; not recognised by the FCI1

homemade and simpleTreats they will love

Simple Carrot Crunchies The Kennel Club
Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup Dogs Trust
Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice) Blue Cross

All treat recipes for dogs

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

the things everyone asksOwner questions

How often should I feed my Greek Shepherd, and at what times?

Adult Greek Shepherds do well with at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feed at consistent times each day, and always follow the food label's guidelines and your vet's advice for your dog's specific needs.3

What should a Greek Shepherd eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for your Greek Shepherd's age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts; always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.4

How often should I bathe a Greek Shepherd?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 10 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. Use a dog-safe shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect the natural oils in their thick double coat.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Greek Shepherd need brushing?

Brush your Greek Shepherd every three days, and daily during heavy shedding seasons to manage loose fur. Their dense double coat benefits from regular brushing to stay healthy and reduce shedding.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Greek Shepherd's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside), and use proper dog nail clippers.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Greek Shepherd need?

This breed needs daily exercise and a sense of purpose, not just walks. Provide space for them to roam and tasks to do, as they are built for a working life alongside flocks.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Greek Shepherd's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste only. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution, never pushing anything into the ear canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Greek Shepherd live?

Lifespan varies by individual health and care; ask your vet for breed-specific expectations. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle support a long, happy life.

Is a Greek Shepherd good with children and other pets?

This serious, self-reliant guardian is best for experienced owners who respect its independence. Socialization from an early age is important, and supervision with children and other pets is always recommended.1

Can a Greek Shepherd be left alone?

Greek Shepherds are independent working dogs and can handle time alone if they have space and purpose, but they thrive with a job and companionship. Avoid long periods of isolation to prevent boredom or anxiety.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.